Dash for Gas

Today’s Observer highlights criticism from the CBI over George Osborne’s dash for gas energy policy. They say:

“the director general of the CBI, John Cridland, said it was “crucial” to avoid too much reliance on one energy source, particularly if, as in the case of gas, much would have to be imported.”

This comes on top of warnings from major manufacturing companies that they will pull out of investing in renewables because of uncertainties over government policy. That issue may be addressed on Thursday when as the Observer reports:

“This Thursday, the so-called Quad of senior ministers, which includes David Cameron, Osborne, Nick Clegg and Danny Alexander, Lib Dem chief secretary to the Treasury, will meet to decide on the content of the energy bill, which aims to set the framework for a future of affordable, clean energy in the UK. Sources say Osborne may push for cuts to offshore wind subsidies from government and for reductions in support for carbon capture and storage projects from four to two or even one, in return for agreeing a flexible decarbonisation target for the industry.”

Osborne’s approach is indicative of the short termism that has bedevilled the energy industry for decades. That even the CBI recognises this fact is welcome progress.